The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County announced the retirement of esteemed CEO, Heidi McPherson; she will step down from her role at the end of January, 2025, after more than a decade of dedicated service.
Over the past ten years, Heidi led The Community Foundation through significant growth and transformation. Under her leadership, The Community Foundation experienced remarkable advancements in program impacts, increased community engagement and strengthened operational and financial stability. When Heidi joined The Community Foundation, the organization had awarded $26 million in grants and scholarships since its inception in 1998. Under her leadership, that figure has now soared to over $70 million—a testament to her remarkable dedication and vision. Over the past decade, The Community Foundation’s charitable assets have nearly doubled, reaching an impressive $83 million, while the number of funds under its management has tripled. These accomplishments reflect the trust and confidence that the community has placed in The Community Foundation.
“Over the past decade and more, I have had the distinct honor and privilege of leading this remarkable and important foundation. I am incredibly proud of what we achieved together,” noted Heidi McPherson as she reflected on her time with The Community Foundation. She continued, “Our collective efforts resulted in significant program advancements, increased community engagement and operational and financial stability. The Community Foundation staff is remarkable, the board, committees, and donors are dedicated and thoughtful, and our strategic plan is well in place. We have made tremendous progress in maturing The Community Foundation; it is truly ready for the next growth phase. With confidence in The Community Foundation’s readiness, I have determined it is my time to retire.”
Heidi’s influence extends beyond financial growth. She has played a key role in evolving The Community Foundation’s educational initiatives, including the launch of the donor education In Our Backyard series and the establishment of the Data Center—a digital hub offering insights into pressing community issues and emerging trends. Her ability to navigate complex challenges, including multiple natural disasters and a global pandemic, was instrumental in securing additional regional funding and implementing a robust grant program. These efforts have not only supported the community in times of need but have also reinforced the organization’s resiliency and adaptability.
The Board of Directors of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County expressed their profound appreciation for Heidi’s crucial support. Board President Kath Tompkins stated, “We are deeply grateful for Heidi’s invaluable contributions. She ensured our mission and values remained at the forefront of our impact; we witnessed this in her leadership both in times of challenge and success. I am confident that under Heidi’s leadership, our organization reached a position of strength that will enable us to manage this transition smoothly and effectively.”
A search committee has been assembled and the search process is underway, with leadership and the board actively planning and putting resources in place to guide the organization into its future. The Community Foundation extends its deep gratitude for Heidi McPherson’s decade of dedicated service and looks forward to a smooth transition and a promising future ahead.